Mouth-Watering Baked Ziti: A Kid-Friendly Dinner Delight
When it comes to pleasing the whole family at dinnertime, few dishes can match the comforting appeal of a piping hot baked ziti. This classic Italian casserole combines al dente pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and a generous helping of melted cheese, creating a flavor explosion that will have everyone at the table clamoring for seconds.
The best part? Baked ziti is an incredibly easy dish to prepare, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights. With minimal prep time and a straightforward cooking process, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing meal without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies for the little ones, ensuring they get their daily dose of nutrients without any fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 jar (24 oz) pasta sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, pasta sauce, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the baked ziti cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy this comforting and delicious baked ziti with your loved ones, and savor the smiles on their faces as they dig into this classic Italian favorite. Buon appetito!
